1. Make the Meatballs
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt and pepper.
- Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and set aside. This recipe should yield about 16–20 meatballs.
2. Prepare the French Onion Sauce
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown and caramelized (about 15–20 minutes).
- Deglaze the skillet by adding a splash of beef broth and scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
- Transfer the caramelized onions to the crock pot.
3. Assemble in the Crock Pot
- Add the meatballs on top of the caramelized onions in the crock pot.
- Pour the remaining beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme over the meatballs.
- Gently stir to coat the meatballs in the sauce.
4. Cook the Meatballs
- Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until the meatballs are fully cooked and tender.
5. Add the Cheese
- Once the meatballs are cooked, sprinkle the shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese over the top.
- Cover and let cook for an additional 10–15 minutes on low, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these flavorful meatballs with:
- Mashed Potatoes: A creamy base for the rich sauce.
- Buttered Noodles: For a comforting, hearty meal.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color and flavor.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the crock pot, microwave, or on the stovetop until heated through.
- Freeze: Allow the meatballs to cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Flavorful: Caramelized onions and beef broth create a decadent French onion-inspired sauce.
- Effortless Cooking: The crock pot does the heavy lifting, making this a perfect set-it-and-forget-it recipe.
- Versatile Dish: Works as an appetizer, main course, or a comforting family meal.
These Crock Pot French Onion Beef Meatballs are a must-try for anyone who loves bold, comforting flavors. Whether served at a party or as a cozy dinner, they’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!